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The Mountain Sentinel ™
Your Hometown News Source
December 15, 2014 Edition
On This Day, December 15 …
1791 - In the U.S., the first ten
amendments to the Constitution, known
as the Bill of Rights, went into effect
following ratification by the state
of Virginia.
Contents
On This Day, December 15 … ............................. 1
Weekly Quotes ................................................... 1
Local Teen Spreads Christmas Cheer .................. 2
From the Editor .................................................. 3
Parade of Christmas Trees .................................. 4
Appalachian Spirit .............................................. 5
2014 Christmas Parade ....................................... 6
Food & News Shorts ........................................... 7
Christmas Events 2014 ..................................... 11
Lighting of the Christmas Tree ......................... 12
Read All About It .............................................. 12
Just Ask ............................................................ 14
Get Yer Chuckles .............................................. 14
Sheriff’s Report ................................................ 14
County Commissioners Agenda ........................ 15
Obituaries......................................................... 15
Winter Celebration ........................................... 19
Things To Do .................................................... 20
O Holy Night .................................................... 24
Our Blue Planet ................................................ 24
Year-End Newsletter ........................................ 26
Congressional Voting ....................................... 27
Court Dockets ................................................... 30
The Mountain Sentinel™
themountainsentinel.com
Katherine Hegemann
Editor and Publisher
Jill Penley
Correspondent and Marketing
495 Wisteria Lane
Benson, NC 27504
(919) 600-9352
[email protected]
Copyright 2011-2014
We reserve the right to refuse
subscription or advertising
service to anyone.
Weekly Quotes
"What do you call people who are afraid of Santa Claus? Claustrophobic." –Anonymous
"Santa Claus wears a Red Suit; he must be a communist. And a beard and long hair; must be a
pacifist. What's in that pipe that he's smoking?" -Arlo Guthrie, American folk singer
Page 1 of 35
"I wish we could put up some of the Christmas spirit in jars and open a jar of it every month." -Harlan
Miller
"There are three stages of man: he believes in Santa Claus; he does not believe in Santa Claus; he is
Santa Claus." -Bob Phillips
"Dear Lord, I've been asked, nay commanded, to thank Thee for the Christmas turkey before us. A
turkey which was no doubt a lively, intelligent bird, a social being capable of actual affection and
nuzzling its young with almost human - like compassion. Anyway, it's dead and we're gonna eat it.
Please give our respects to its family." -Berke Breathed, Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist
"That's the true spirit of Christmas; people being helped by people other than me." -Jerry Seinfeld,
comedian and writer
"From a commercial point of view, if Christmas did not exist it would be necessary to invent it." Katharine Whitehorn, writer and columnist
"I stopped believing in Santa Claus when my mother took me to see him in a department store, and
he asked for my autograph." -Shirley Temple, Hollywood actress
"Never worry about the size of your Christmas tree. In the eyes of children, they are all 30 feet tall." Larry Wilde, motivational speaker
"The one thing women don't want to find in their stockings on Christmas morning is their husband".
-Joan Rivers, comedienne
"Why is Christmas just like a day at the office? You do all the work and the fat guy with the suit gets
all the credit." –Anonymous
"Let me see if I've got this Santa business straight. You say he wears a beard, has no discernible
source of income and flies to cities all over the world under cover of darkness? You sure this guy isn't
laundering illegal drug money?" -Tom Armstrong, American cartoonist
Local Teen Spreads Christmas Cheer
By Jill Penley
The holidays are a time for giving and this area is ripe with volunteers, but for one Johnson County
High School sophomore the Christmas season is a time to spread cheer in an entirely different way.
Page 2 of 35
Ever since Mason Wilcox
visited the Mountain City Care
and Rehabilitation Center as a
child, he began thinking of
ways he might encourage the
residents. Along the same time,
Wilcox and his family began
collecting outdoor Christmas
decorations
and
as
the
collection grew, an idea began
to take shape.
“I saw how much everyone
enjoyed the decorations,” said
Wilcox, “so I decided the
nursing home residents would
enjoy them too.” Since his
mother is the marketing
director at the facility, she
quickly cleared the idea with management and now there are plenty of decorations for the residents,
the staff and visitors to enjoy including a 20 foot snowman, a touching nativity scene and a light
show.
“This is the second year I have decorated the nursing home for Christmas,” explained Wilcox, who
spends about two weeks assembling the decorations and tweaking all the lights. “I really enjoy doing
this for the residents,” he said. “They get real excited. They watch out their windows and if
something isn't working or gets blown over they come and tell me first thing for me to fix it.”
Mason’s parents are proud of his volunteerism. “He has liked decorating for Halloween and
Christmas since he was little,” explained his mother. “Last year we thoughts we would decorate the
nursing home so more people can see. The residents, staff and visitors loved it. And this year the
residents were coming outside to look before we even got the boxes open to start.” The majority of
the decorations were purchased by the teen and he takes great pride in positioning them so that the
residents can see as much of them as possible. “Mason comes to the nursing home almost every
day,” beamed his mother. “He talks to the residents and helps them when he can. Mason helps with
activities and events we have. He is very good to the residents and they like him.”
From the Editor
Since Christmas and New Year’s Eve are almost upon us, you
will see much of this edition, and the next two or three,
dedicated to the season. Articles about what’s going on
locally to celebrate, photographs of events and Christmas in
general, and even Christmas/New Year’s Just Ask columns.
You will see sprinkled in the paper photos of decorated
Christmas trees. These are from the Parade of Trees at the
Welcome Center. Take a little time out of your busy schedule
to be amazed by these beautiful trees. And thank the
Welcome Center staff for hosting this event.
If you choose to attend a Christmas Eve service, there are
probably a lot of them. However, we have been notified of
Page 3 of 35
two: First United Methodist
Church and First Christian
Church. Either will inspire you
and make you celebrate the
‘reason for the season’.
I hope you enjoy this edition of
the Mountain Sentinel. There’s
lots of local news to share with
you. You will notice also that
there are many, many photos.
We love showing off what folks
are doing this time of year.
There’s a new part-time staff
member on board this
publication. Jill A. Penley will
be our Lead Correspondent and
Marketing Manager. All you
local folks who have any kind
of business and believe in supporting other local business should contact her to advertise with us.
We’re a local business too. We can even help you come with an advertising plan to help you increase
your revenue.
Have a story to tell but aren’t sure how to tell it? Contact Jill or me, and we will help you out. If you
just know information our readers need to know or they might enjoy reading about, let us know.
Remember, it’s all about YOUR local news, and we’re the source of local information.
Parade of Christmas Trees
By Karla Prudhomme
There were many people at the Welcome Center for this lovely event, and the center looked fabulous!
There were refreshments provided to those attending. Kathy Terrill was there representing the
Historical Society, and she was busy selling Johnson County History Books. Karen Anderson did a great
job decorating additional trees to ensure that both the downstairs and the upstairs of the Welcome
Center were packed with beautifully decorated trees!
The 'white tree' is the Veterans Tree, and it was very moving and beautiful, as many people had
placed the names of their loved ones that were or are veterans on the tree- either in remembrance or
in honor of their sacrifice. Both the Quilt guild and the Historical Society had excellent trees.
Page 4 of 35
Appalachian Spirit
Yummy for Your Tummy!
By Katherine Hegemann
Most folks are having friends and family over for a
Christmas dinner, or they’re going somewhere during the
holiday where there is going to be a crowd and food.
Somebody has to do dessert. The problem is a pie or cake
only feeds a few. Well, a normal one at any rate. This
apple pie recipe serves up to 24 people. That depends, of
course, how large a portion you want to serve. As good as
it is, you may end up with only 12 servings. If you bring
this dessert, you may end up being the star of the party.
Slab Apple Pie
You will need:










1 box refrigerated piecrusts, softened as directed on box
1 cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
9 cups thinly sliced, peeled apples (9 medium)
1 jar salted caramel topping
How you make it:
1. Heat oven to 450°F. Remove piecrusts from pouches. On lightly floured surface, unroll and stack
crusts one on top of the other. Roll to 17x12-inch rectangle. Fit crust into 15x10x1-inch pan,
pressing into corners. Fold extra crust under, even with edges of pan.
2. In small bowl, mix granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt and lemon juice. Add apples,
stirring to coat. Spoon the apple mixture into crust-lined pan. Drizzle caramel topping over apple
mix.
3. Bake 33 to 38 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly. Cool in pan on cooling
rack 45 minutes.
4. In small bowl, mix powdered sugar and milk until well blended. Drizzle over pie. Let stand until
glaze is set, about 30 minutes.
Variations:
You can buy one extra box of piecrusts to create a lattice
or use a small cookie cutter to cut shapes to place on top
of apple mix. You can even make a regular piecrust work
if that’s what you want. After making this, I found
drizzling the caramel over the lattice doesn’t work very
well. Instead, I suggest mix up the sweet spices with
granulated sugar. I make and keep cinnamon sugar on
hand anyway, and it works very well. Put them in an
empty shaker-style spice bottle and sprinkle the mix over
the top of the lattice. You get a tasty top crust, and it is
colorful too.
Don’t forget:
This is best eaten warm with vanilla ice cream on top.
Yummy, yummy!
BTW:
I took all the calories out of the pie.
Page 5 of 35
2014 Christmas Parade
Page 6 of 35
Food & News Shorts
The Mountain Sentinel’s editor believes the material posted in this column constitutes fair use.
Cucumbers Likely Cause of Jimmy John’s E. Coli Outbreak
By Dan Flynn
Eating Jimmy John’s sandwiches with cucumbers
imported from Mexico was the likely cause of a Denverarea E. coli O157:H7 outbreak that occurred in October
2013, according to a new 27-page state investigative
report.
The investigation, by the Colorado Department of Public
Health and Environment (CDPHE) and several local
public health departments in the Denver area, identified
nine E. coli infections associated with sandwiches
purchased at Jimmy John’s outlets in Littleton, Lakewood, and Glendale that came with the Mexican
cucumbers. Eight of the nine cases were laboratory-confirmed with matching pulsed-field gel
electrophoresis (PFGE) and with multiple-locus variable number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA)
patterns from E. coli O157:H7 isolated from stool samples. A ninth probable case was included in the
outbreak.
http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2014/12/jimmy-johns-cucumbers-not-sprouts-responsible-for-ecoil-outbreak/#.VIb8CDHF8QA
FDA reporting mental health drug ziprasidone (Geodon) associated with rare but potentially
fatal skin reactions
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning that the antipsychotic drug ziprasidone
(marketed under the brand name, Geodon, and its generics) is associated with a rare but serious skin
reaction that can progress to affect other parts of the body. A new warning has been added to the
Geodon drug label to describe the serious condition known as Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and
Systemic Symptoms (DRESS). Patients who have a fever with a rash and/or swollen lymph glands
should seek urgent medical care. Health care professionals should immediately stop treatment with
ziprasidone if DRESS is suspected.
Ziprasidone is an antipsychotic drug used to treat the serious mental health disorders schizophrenia
and bipolar I disorder.
http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm426391.htm
Chile Cheese Enchiladas Recalled for Possible Salmonella Contamination
Overhill Farms Inc. of Vernon, CA, is voluntarily recalling the frozen food product Open Nature Chile
Cheese Enchiladas due to
potential Salmonella contamination.
The supplier for the organic cilantro contained in the
product notified Overhill Farms that the organic cilantro
may have Salmonella contamination based on routine
testing.
http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2014/12/chile-cheeseenchiladas-recalled-for-possible-salmonellacontamination/#.VIb8RTHF8QA
FDA: Idaho Knew About Chobani Mold Problem
Before 2013 Recall
By Dan Flynn
A federal report obtained under the Freedom of
Information Act (FOIA) indicates that the Idaho
Department of Agriculture knew about that moldy
Chobani yogurt two months before it was recalled.
Page 7 of 35
The state denies the claim
found in a U.S. Food and Drug
Administration report by the
Twin Falls Times-News, the
daily newspaper located near
the Idaho Chobani plant.
http://www.foodsafetynews.co
m/2014/12/fda-report-saysidaho-knew-about-chobanimold-problem-before-2013recall/#.VIb8MTHF8QA
Safeway Recalls Safeway
Select French Salted Caramel
(Fleur De Sel) Premium Ice
Cream Sold November 4
through December 5 Due to
an Undeclared Peanut
Allergen
Safeway is voluntarily recalling Safeway Select French Salted Caramel (Fleur De Sel) Premium Ice
Cream sold in all Safeway-owned stores from November 4, 2014 through December 5, 2014 due to the
inclusion of an undeclared peanut allergen.
People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to peanuts run the risk of a serious or lifethreatening allergic reaction if they consume this product. The recalled product is in a 1.5 quart
package and displays the following UPC Code and Best Before Date.
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm425984.htm
Largest School Districts Going With Antibiotic-Free Chicken
On Tuesday evening, the Urban School Food Alliance announced its new antibiotic-free standard for
companies to follow when supplying chicken products to its schools.
The Alliance is a coalition of the largest school districts in the U.S., includes New York City, Los
Angeles, Chicago, Miami-Dade, Dallas and Orlando, and serves nearly 2.9 million students every day.
http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2014/12/largest-u-s-school-districts-going-antibioticfree/#.VIg53jHF8QA
CSPI Wants FDA to Ban Sales of Bulk Caffeine
The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) is asking the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) to ban the sale of pure, powdered or liquid caffeine as a dietary supplement.
“CSPI believes that highly concentrated caffeine presents a unique, self-evident danger to consumers
that justifies an immediate ban and corresponding adjustments to FDA’s regulations,” states the
petition submitted Tuesday.
http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2014/12/cspi-wants-ban-sales-of-caffeine-in-bulk/#.VIg54DHF8QA
Dietary Supplements Containing Live Bacteria or Yeast in Immunocompromised Persons:
Warning - Risk of Invasive Fungal Disease
FDA is warning health professionals of the risks associated with the regarding use of dietary
supplements containing live bacteria or yeast in immunocompromised persons. A premature infant
administered a dietary supplement, ABC Dophilus Powder (Solgar), as part of in-hospital course of
treatment, developed gastrointestinal mucormycosis caused by the mold Rhizopus oryzae and died.
Rhizopus oryzae mold was found to be present as a contaminant in an unopened container of the
ABC Dophilus Powder, which is formulated to contain three species of live bacteria.
FDA, along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Connecticut
Department of Public Health, are investigating the death of this preterm infant who developed
gastrointestinal mucormycosis. In mid-November, Solgar issued a recall for certain lots of ABC
Dophilus Powder and public health warnings were issued advising customers and consumers not to
use the recalled product.
Page 8 of 35
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/
SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/ucm426331.htm
Global Garlic Inc. Recalls De Mi Pais Products
Cuajada Fresca (Fresh Curd) and Cuajada Olanchana
(Fresh Curd) because of Possible Health Risk
Global Garlic, Inc. of Miami, FL is recalling De Mi Pais
products: Cuajada Fresca (Fresh Curd) 12oz. and Cuajada
Olanchana (Fresh Curd) 12oz., because it has the
potential to be contaminated withListeria
Monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and
sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or
elderly people, and others with weakened immune
systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only
short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe
headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea,
listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths
among pregnant women.
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm426345.htm
Whalen’s Horseradish Products, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Anchovy in Whalen’s
Seafood & Burger Sauce
Whalen’s Horseradish Products, Inc. of Galway, NY is recalling WHALEN’S SEAFOOD & BURGER
SAUCE, because it contains undeclared anchovy, an element of the Worcestershire Sauce used in the
finished product. People who have an allergy to fish run the risk of a serious or life-threatening
allergic reaction if they consume this product.
The WHALEN’S SEAFOOD & BURGER SAUCE was distributed to two wholesalers in New York, to
consumers through on-line sales and to cash & carry customers at the Deerfield Christmas Sampler
in Deerfield, Massachusetts on November 28, 29 and 30.
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm426464.htm
FDA Says BPA-Lined Containers Are Safe, But New Study Raises Concerns
It might be easy to dismiss the latest study about spiking one’s blood pressure by drinking soy milk
from cans lined with bisphenol A (more commonly known as BPA). After all, serious hypertension is
more likely to occur from the sodium contained in whatever food or beverage is in the can.
But the new Korean soy milk study, involving taking the blood pressure of a relatively small number
of women divided into groups — with one drinking soy milk from cans with BPA and the other from
glass bottles — is a media hit in the U.S.
http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2014/12/fda-says-food-containers-lined-with-bpa-are-safe-butkorean-study-raises-new-concern/#.VIpLyjHF8QA
Del Monte Recalls Fresh-Cut Fruit Products With Gala Red Apples for Potential Listeria
Contamination
Del Monte Fresh Produce N.A., Inc. (“Del Monte Fresh”) announced Wednesday the voluntary recall
of fresh-cut fruit products containing Gala red apples grown in Pennsylvania.
The affected products were distributed to a limited number of customers in a few states in the
northeast U.S. and are being recalled because these apples have the potential to be contaminated
with Listeria monocytogenes.
http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2014/12/del-monte-recalls-fresh-fruit-products-with-red-applesfor-potential-listeria-contamination/#.VIpLvTHF8QA
CDC: Raw Milk-Related Outbreaks on the Rise
By James Andrews
During the three years from 2007 to 2009, 30 foodborne illness outbreaks in the U.S. were connected
to raw milk consumption. Yet, in the next three years, from 2010 to 2012, that number rose to 51,
according to a new study published in the January issue of Emerging Infectious Diseases, a peerreviewed monthly journal published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Page 9 of 35
In that time, 81 percent of raw
milk-related outbreaks
occurred in states that allow
for the legal sale of raw milk.
Retail sale of raw milk is legal
in 10 states, on-farm sales are
legal in another 16, and seven
states have legalized herdshare programs, in which a
number of people “buy in” to
owning dairy cows from which
they receive raw milk.
http://www.foodsafetynews.co
m/2014/12/study-number-ofraw-milk-outbreaks-on-therise/#.VIrv1zHF8QA
Twitter Chat Brings
Together Holiday Food
Safety Tips
On Thursday, Dec. 11, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention hosted its second
annual Twitter chat using the tag #CDCfoodchat to give consumers tips on keeping holiday meals
safe and healthy.
There are some of the top food safety tips for grocery shopping, preparing your kitchen, thawing
meat, safe cooking temperatures, notes on raw foods, serving, leftovers and more.
http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2014/12/cdc-brings-holiday-food-safety-tips-to-twitter/
Funding Package Inches Forward
Senate to debate spending bill after narrow passage in the House
By Lydia Zuraw
Unsure whether the congressional spending package referred to by many in Washington, D.C., as
the “cromnibus” had enough votes to pass, House GOP leaders delayed a final vote Thursday
afternoon, but, after 9 p.m., they managed to pass the bill 219-206.
In order to keep the government from shutting down while the Senate debates the Consolidated and
Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015, the House also passed a two-day continuing
resolution so that funding wouldn’t dry up at midnight Thursday.
http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2014/12/2015-funding-package/#.VIrv0DHF8QA
Giant Eagle Recalls Apple Pistachio Salad With or Without Chicken Because of Possible
Health Risk
Giant Eagle has issued a recall of Giant Eagle Apple Pistachio Salad and Apple Pistachio Salad with
Chicken because the salads may contain fresh cut Gala red apples currently recalled by Del Monte
Fresh Produce N.A. due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. To date, Giant Eagle has
received no reports of customer illnesses associated with this recall.
The affected Del Monte fresh cut Gala red apples were distributed to retailers in multiple states in
the northeast U.S. and is being recalled because these apples have the potential to be contaminated
with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in
young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems.
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm426704.htm
Major US Cities Not “Chickening” Out on Good School Food
By Mark Izeman
Today, six of the largest cities in the United States — New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, MiamiDade, Dallas and Orlando — announced they will seek to buy only antibiotic-free chicken for the
nearly three million kids they serve in their public schools every day.
Page 10 of 35
This is a big deal.
Why? Because purchasing poultry and meat raised without improper antibiotics is a critical piece of
ensuring the safety of our children.
http://switchboard.nrdc.org/blogs/mizeman/antibiotic_free_chicken_for_six_cities.html
FDA Shuts Down Sprouts Processor for ‘Unsanitary Conditions’
William H. Oshiro, owner of RZM Food Factory, Makawao, HI, has agreed to stop processing and
distributing food until he demonstrates to FDA that RZM Food Factory’s facility and practices
comply with federal food safety requirements.
The agreement, known as a consent decree of permanent injunction, was signed by a federal judge
and entered in the U.S. District Court of Hawaii on Dec. 11, 2014.
http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2014/12/fda-shuts-down-sprouts-processor-for-unsanitaryconditions/#.VIwzXCvF8QA
Wisconsin Names Two Farms That Sourced Raw Milk Linked to Outbreaks
Wisconsin state officials have released the names of two farms that supplied raw milk linked to
Campylobacter outbreaks of the past few years.
In September 2014, 38 people were sickened after attending a potluck meal for the Durand High
School football team. According to the state Department of Health Services memo released Friday, a
farm operated by Roland and Diana Reed of Arkansaw, WI, was the source of the unpasteurized milk
served at the meal.
http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2014/12/wisconsin-names-farms-that-sourced-raw-milk-linked-tooutbreaks/#.VIwzdyvF8QA
Christmas Events 2014
Page 11 of 35
Lighting of the Christmas Tree
The tree lightening ceremony was a coordinated effort, but all have to thank Nancy Garrick for her
hard work in putting this wonderful event together.
MMCT's own local radio personality, Jim Gilley acted as MC, and kicked off the event with some
introductions, and a Christmas Greeting to the over 100 people gathered on the courthouse lawn.
Rev. Dwayne Dickson gave the invocation and told the story of Christmas.
Temple Reece, spokesperson for the J.C. Arts Council, spoke about the council’s role in the Christmas
events happening in our community.
The J.C. middle school choir, Vocal Intensity, lead by the Nancy Davis, gave a wonderful performance
that put everyone in the Christmas Spirit.
Karla Prudhomme spoke for Mayor Potter, and wished everyone a Merry Christmas, while also taking
the opportunity to thank Mrs. Garrick for all her hard work.
Andy Wright gave the history of the Christmas tree.
The evening ended with the Lightening of the Community Christmas Tree and crowd sing-along, led
by Vocal Intensity.
Read All About It
Time To Tell The Firestone Story
Pettus L. Read writes for the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation. He may be contacted by e-mail at
[email protected].
Back in the day when I held a real job instead of being
retired, I remember one December evening riding on a
shuttle bus to an event at the Governor’s residence with a
number of media folks from around the state. We were all
involved in journalism either in newspaper, TV, radio or as
freelance writers and we joined together on this mode of
transportation for this one night to enjoy a holiday get
together. It was a cold and dark December night, which is
how most writers start a suspenseful story - or at least
Snoopy does - but the night was typical for December and it did lend itself for a good night to see
Christmas lights as we drove through some of Nashville’s neighborhoods.
As I sat there gazing out the window into the dark yards of unsuspecting Nashvillians, I overheard
two of my fellow media types talking about how they had only done minimal decorating. They
surmised that they did so due to the current economy and that they just didn’t wish for their yards to
resemble “Whoville.” I still remember those individual’s remarks to this day, and as my grandfather
often said, “It really stuck in my craw!”
Page 12 of 35
Recently, I have just finished, once again, turning my
front yard and home into a display of lights and holiday
gaudiness on a day that the winds blew out of the north
and I, too, could have used an excuse of some type to keep
my lighted reindeer in the barn for another year.
However, I have been a part of the “Gaudy Christmas
Decoration Society” for years and the economy has never
really figured into my reasoning for lighting our hillside
home with lights. All I have to do is reflect back to when I
was a child growing up on our rural countryside farm and
remember a very special Christmas shopping trip made by
my mother to truly understand my fascination of outside
lighting. I’ve told this story before, but I think this year it
deserves to be told again. Our country needs some
brightness and there is no better time to do so than at
Christmas when there is no time for excuses.
In the late fifties, Christmas lights on doorways and
houses were something you may have seen in nearby
cities, but not on the farms in our area. Of course, everyone placed their lighted live cedar Christmas
trees in front of a window or as close as possible so it could be seen from the outside, but yard
decorations were just not that prevalent back then. I remember the visits to town at Christmas time
and seeing the storefronts full of lights and Christmas decorations. The homes along Murfreesboro’s
Main Street were always beautifully decorated with evergreens and lights as they are still today. As a
small child, those homes were a wonderment of holiday excitement and hopes.
One year, about three weeks before Christmas Day, my mother and father arrived home from a trip
into town. As they unpacked their purchases from their trip to town, they pulled out two long boxes
that were decorated with Christmas trees and had the logo of GE on the front of each box. The boxes
had come from the Firestone store where my father bought everything.
Each box contained a strand of 12 outdoor Christmas lights of multi-colors. Of course, they were the
kind that if one burnt out they all would go out, but they were the most beautiful things I had ever
seen. My mother had saved back some special “Christmas money” to buy the lights to add some
holiday cheer to our small Tennessee farmhouse.
My father cut cedar greenery and helped us nail it around the front door. Then he and my sister
attached the lights to each side of the doorway and ran a brown extension cord to the single light
bulb socket located on the porch. Each bulb was checked and the lights tested to see if they worked.
After passing all tests, our outside display now waited for sundown.
I’ll never forget standing in that dark and cold December night in our front yard as my mother turned
on the porch light switch. It was as big of an event to me as
the lighting of the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center in
New York City.
When the lights came on their blues, greens, reds, and
yellows blended just right with the cedar greenery on the
doorway. As a small boy it signaled to me that the
Christmas season had arrived.
For years we used those lights from the Firestone store.
They soon lost the paint from around the bulbs and you
could see light through the cracks in their paint, but they
still announced the arrival of the season to our rural
countryside.
So, I guess that is why I still put up my Christmas lights
each year. To announce to others that the season has
arrived at our house and to renew those same feelings I felt
standing in that cold front yard many Christmases ago - a
feeling of belonging and being loved by a family who cared
to express the joy of the holiday season. Merry Christmas!
Page 13 of 35
Just Ask
Question: Since you’ve been an adult, what is your most favorite Christmas
memory?
1. Since I've been a WHAT?
2. Please don't use my name but, I will always remember Christmas just before
my 13 birthday when my grandmother gave me two pairs of fancy underpants
and realizing my birthday was two days away said 'one of them is for your
birthday"...............never forgot that.
3. One of our kids coming down on Christmas morning.
4. First snow on Christmas morning, with friends, a bird cooking, games, laughter. I was 22.
5. I cannot remember any of the gifts, but I can always remember being together as a family.
6. Continuing the magic of Santa for my children.
7. My daughter's first Christmas and years later her daughter and my only grandchild's first
Christmas are my most favorite Christmas memories.
8. My favorite Christmas memory happened in the late sixties when our children were toddlers and
woke up early to see what Santa had brought. Their eyes were filled with wonder at the toys and
gifts they received.
9. Letting my children decorate the Christmas tree for me.
Get Yer Chuckles
Sheriff’s Report
12/12/2014
12/05/2014
Michael Demmer, Perry NY, Capias X 2
12/05/2014
Pascuan J Fransisco, South Shady St, Public Intoxication
12/05/2014
Jason M Snyder, Lumpkin Branch Rd, Assault As Domestic Violence
12/05/2014
Robert M Hodges, Hwy 91 N, Violation of Probation
12/06/2014
Sandra K Campbell, Maple Rd, Driving Under the Influence
12/06/2014
Kristie A Thompson, Gentry’s Creek Rd, Violation of Probation
12/06/2014
Michael Hodge, Dry Stone Branch, Assault
12/06/2014
Stephanie L Arnold, Village Square Ln, Public Intoxication
12/08/2014
Miguel B Luna, Trivette Rd, Assault As Domestic Violence
12/09/2014
Christopher C Beesley, Brown Rd, Violation of Probation
Page 14 of 35
12/09/2014
Elizabeth R Mabe, Pedro Shoun Ln, Violation of Probation
12/09/2014
Jerry F Owens, Jackson St, Violation of Probation
12/10/2014
John K Eisenhower Jr, Moretz Rd, Driving Under the Influence
12/10/2014
Jaime Martinez, Elizabethton Rd, Contributing To the Delinquency of a Minor, No
Drivers License
12/10/2014
Michael S May, Zionville NC, Theft of Property
12/10/2014
Dayton R Stout, Hwy 421 N, Possession of Schedule Ii, Carrying or possession of a
Weapon
12/11/2014
Thomas J Church, Lodge St, Theft of Property
12/11/2014
Michael L Greever, Eggers Branch Rd, Violation of Bond Supervision
12/11/2014
Sanda L Smith, Furnace Creek Rd, Public Intoxication
Johnson County Commissioners Agenda
Johnson County Government
Larry Potter, County Mayor
222 West Main Street
Mountain City, TN 37683
Phone: 423-727-9696
December 18, 2014
To: Commissioners of Johnson County Tennessee
Bill Adams, Eugene Campbell, Robert G. 'Jerry' Grindstaff, Evelyn Hill, Huey L. Long, George Lowe, Jimmy Lowe, Steve
Marshall, Scott Mast, Gina Meade, Christopher B. Pierce, Tommy Poore, Bill Roark, Rick Snyder, and Mike Taylor.
JOHNSON COUNTY COMMISSION WILL MEET THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2014 AT 7 PM. THE
MEETING WILL BE HELD IN THE UPPER COURTROOM OF THE JOHNSON COUNTY COURTHOUSE,
222 WEST MAIN STREET, MOUNTAIN CITY, TENNESSEE.
AGENDA:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Approve November 2014 Minutes
Committee Reports
Approve Notaries
Approve Budget Amendments — Russell Robinson
Purchasing Recommendations — Dustin Shearin
Approve Appointments to E-911 Board: Jason Blevins (12/31/2018) and Janet Wilson (12/31/2018) —
Jerry Jordon
Obituaries
MARIE DAVIS
Marie Davis, age 90, of Mountain City, Tennessee, passed away on Friday
evening, December 5, 2014 at the Mountain City Care Center, surrounded
by her loving family. She was born on August 4, 1924 to the late Lennie
Swift Lewis. In addition to her mother, Marie was preceded in death by
her husband, Doran Davis; sister, Beulah Harper; brother, Hoover Lewis
and grandson-in-law, Michael Stout.
Marie loved to quilt and work in her vegetable and flower gardens. She
loved her family and friends, especially her grandchildren, whom she
enjoyed spoiling.
Page 15 of 35
Marie was a member of First Christian Church.
She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Jean and Ray Henson; sons and daughters-in-law,
Earl and Linda Davis, Wayne and Nancy Davis and Jim Davis; sisters: Ruth White and Wanda
Campbell and husband Paul; grandchildren: Lisa Stout, Donnie Henson and wife Judy, Ronnie
Henson and wife Chelley and Bo Henson and wife Terri; eleven great grandchildren; five great-great
grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.
Funeral Service was conducted at 2:00 p.m. Monday, December 8, 2014 at the Mountain City Funeral
Home with Ministers Ken Caswell and Dwayne Dickson officiating. Music was provided by daughterin-law, Nancy Davis.
Graveside Service and Interment followed from the Phillippi Cemetery. Pallbearers were grandsons
and great grandsons.
For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made in Marie’s memory to the Johnson County
Rescue Squad, 203 Vandilla Street, Mountain City, TN 37683.
Condolences may be sent to the family at mountaincityfh.com
The family of Marie Davis has entrusted her services to Mountain City Funeral Home of 224 S.
Church Street, Mountain City, TN 37683
FRANCES L. HAMM
Frances L. Hamm, age 91, of 1226 Hwy 133, Shady Valley, TN and formerly
of Damascus, VA passed away on Monday, December 8, 2014 at the Pine
Ridge Care Center, Elizabethton, TN. She was born October 30, 1921 to the
late Thomas Jefferson Widner and Annie Suits Widner. Frances was a
member of First Christian Church of Damascus, VA. She enjoyed collecting
glassware. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her
husband: John Harrison Hamm; son: Tommy Hamm; and two brothers:
MacDonald Widner and Johnny Widner.
Survivors include one son: Robert Lee Hamm and wife Jewel of Shady
Valley, TN; two grandchildren: Shannon Ellis and husband Brad of Johnson
City, TN and Tracy Hamm and wife Debbie of Charlotte, NC; two great
grandchildren: Tyler Harrison Hamm and Dylan Alexander Hamm; and
several nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Sunday, December 14, 2014 in New Lutheran Cemetery
in Washington County, VA with Mr. Warren Wilson officiating. Active pallbearers will be nephews
and friends. Honorary pallbearers will be Doctors, Staff and Hospice at Pine Ridge Care Center.
Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website at huxlipfordfh.com
Professional arrangements for the Hamm family are in the care of Hux-Lipford Funeral Home.
PASTOR ALAN KOCH
Pastor Alan Dale Koch, age 54, of Mountain City, Tennessee, passed away
on Tuesday, December 9, 2014. He was born on July 22, 1960 to the late
William and Mary McIntire Koch. In addition to his parents, he was
preceded in death by a sister, Earleen Koch and brother, Robert Koch.
Alan loved the outdoors, especially hiking, fishing and golf. He had a
large loving family that he enjoyed spending time with.
Alan had the honor of pastoring at several churches, making many
friends along the way. One of the highlights of his career and personal
life was the many mission trips that he was honored to participate and
assist with.
He was a United States Marine Veteran.
Pastor Alan is survived by his wife of 34 years, Mary Koch; daughter and son-in-law, Audra Lloyd and
husband Steve; sisters: Linda Farr, Tammy Sultaire, Cheryl Keifer, Pauleen Kidd and Tracy Lord;
brother, Bill Koch; grandchildren: Mary E. Koch, Kaylynn Lloyd, Sarah Lloyd and Joshua Sikes; great
grandson, Ronnie Alan; four nieces and thirteen nephews; his church family and many special
friends.
Page 16 of 35
Funeral Service for Pastor Alan Koch was conducted at
2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 13, 2014 at the Sugar Grove
Baptist Church with Rev. Jack Roddy to officiate. Music
was be provided by the Sugar Grove Baptist Church Choir.
Pallbearers were Alan’s grandson, Joshua Sykes and the
Christian Men from local churches. Honorary pallbearers
were Deacons and Trustees of Sugar Grove Baptist
Church.
Condolences may be sent to the family online at
mountaincityfh.com.
The family of Pastor Alan Dale Koch has entrusted his
services to Mountain City Funeral Home, 224 S. Church
St., Mountain City, TN.
BARBARA L SLUDER
Barbara L. Sluder, age 73, of 114 Allison Road, Piney Flats,
TN passed away Tuesday, December 9, 2014 in Johnson
City Medical Center. She was born January 31, 1941 to the
late Willis Ross and Emily Rifenbark Ross. She was a member of Shady Valley Baptist Church and she
enjoyed scrapbooking, crocheting and painting. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death
by her husband Johnny H. Sluder and two brothers, Jim Ross and Carl Ross.
Survivors include: three daughters: Viola Browning and husband Jay of Piney Flats, TN; Elva Wright
of Granite Falls, NC and Brenda Harper of Boone, NC; three sisters: Helen Shepherd of Shady Valley,
TN; Roseann Johnson of LaPort, IN and Wanda Wakeman of Kingsberry, IN; one brother: Ernie Ross
of Grandblank, MI; six grandchildren: Steven, John, Tammy, Christina, A.J. and Heather; several
nieces and nephews; and special friends: Dr. Charles Famoyin and Dr. Carmina Garcia.
A memorial service was be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 13, 2014 from the Shady Valley
Baptist Church with Rev. Richard Stout officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Relay for Life or Johnson County Cancer
Support Group, % Flo Bellamy, 3510 Hwy 421 N, Mountain City, TN 37683.
Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website at huxlipfordfh.com
Professional services for the Sluder family are in the care of Hux-Lipford Funeral Home.
RUBY C. WAGNER
Ruby C. Wagner, age 99, passed away Tuesday, December 9, 2014 in
Ivy Hall Nursing Home in Elizabethton, TN. She was born June 9,
1915 in Old Butler to the late Walt and Etta Crosswhite Griffey. She
was a native of Old Butler and attended The Watauga Academy. Ruby
was the widow of Daniel Wilburn Wagner. In addition to her parents
and husband, she was predeceased in death by her son: Rondal “Bud”
Wagner; daughter: Shirley Wagner Dugger; two grandchildren:
Michael Dugger and Brenda Dugger Bell; her sisters: Ruth, Chastine
and Georgia Lee; brother: Haskell Griffey; daughters-in-law: Gerldine
Dugger Wagner and Christine Fletcher Wagner; and son-in-law: Bill
Dugger.
Ruby was a member of Midway Baptist Church and loved to work
outside in her flower garden. She had many friends and was loved by everyone. Ruby could always
tell a good story and would have everyone laughing. She will be greatly missed by family and friends.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Jonathan Bremer and the staff of Ivy Hall
Nursing Home.
Survivors include: three sons: Bob Wagner and wife Carolyn of Bluffton, SC; Jess Wagner of Shady
Valley, TN and Bill Wagner and wife Linda of Icard, NC; one daughter: Connie Wagner Sluder and
husband Burl of Elizabethton, TN; twelve grandchildren: Robin Wagner Lunceford and husband
Wayne; Sharon Dugger Paul and husband Phillip; Johnny Dugger; Jimmy Dugger; Todd Wagner and
wife Jeannette; Tammy Wagner Mellott and husband Jim; Tracy Wagner Jones and husband Mark;
Page 17 of 35
Melissa Wagner McClain and husband Todd; Elizabeth
Sluder, Teresa sluder Singleton and husband Randy;
DeAnna Wagner Kinney and husband Joe; and David
Wagner and wife Robin; twenty-two great grandchildren
and seven great great grandchildren; special niece Hazel
Wagner Campbell and special nephew Edwin Sprawls. She
is also survived by many friends including special friends
Margaret Roberts, Lorene Tester and Charlene Laws.
Funeral services were conducted at 7:00 p.m. Friday,
December 12, 2014 from the Charles B. Hux Memorial
Chapel of Hux-Lipford Funeral Home with Pastor Greg
Thompson and Rev. Burl Sluder officiating. Graveside
service and interment were held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday,
December 13, 2014 in Rock Springs Baptist Church
Cemetery. Active pallbearers were grandsons and friends.
Honorary pallbearers were Jack Bradley, Larry Grindstaff,
Steve Tester and Junior Potter.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to
Johnson County Rescue Squad, 203 Vandilla Street, Mountain City, TN 37683 or to the Johnson
County Cancer Support Group, %Flo Bellamy, 3510 Hwy 421 N, Mountain City, TN 37683.
Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website at huxlipfordfh.com
Professional services for the Wagner family are in the care of Hux-Lipford Funeral Home.
ALICE M ROBINSON
Alice Maude Robinson, age 59, Pleasant Garden, N.C. passed away on Wednesday, December 10, 2014
at the Moses –Cone Hospital, Greensboro, N.C. after an extended illness. She was born in
Toughkenamon, PA. on March 19, 1955, to the late Charlie D Mains and Jane Dunn Mains. In
addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Mike Robinson. She formally
worked at Burlington and Sara Lee. She was a JCHS Graduate of the Class of 1972. She loved knitting
and spending time with her grandchildren.
Survivors of Alice are her sons, Danny Robinson and fiancée Ashley, Elizabethton, TN. Michael
Robinson and wife De Dee, Pleasant Garden, N.C. Weston Robinson and wife Shannon, Slier City,
N.C. and Brandon Robinson also of Siler City, N.C. Sister, Lisa Hackney, Greensboro, N.C. and
brother David Mains, and wife Sandy, Randleman, N.C. Eight grandchildren and several nieces and
nephews also survive, along with special friends Joan Peters, Joann Pennington and Judy Gentry.
Funeral Service s will be conducted at 7:00 p.m. Sunday, December 14, 2014 in Charles B. Hux
Memorial Chapel of the Hux Lipford Funeral Home with Rev. Gary Hill officiating.
The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. until the service hour.
Graveside services will be held on Monday, December 15, 2014 at 11 a.m. in the Sunset Memorial
Park.
Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website at huxlipfordfh.com
Professional arrangements for the Robinson family are in the care of Hux-Lipford Funeral Home.
ZOE CLAIRE LEWIS
Zoe Claire Lewis, infant daughter of Jeffrey and Maggie Winters Lewis, passed away on Wednesday,
December 10, 2014 at the Johnson City Medical Center.
In addition to her parents, Zoe is survived by her sister, Izzy Lewis, brothers: Elijah Lewis, Zane
Lewis, and Ezra Lewis; maternal grandparents, Howard and Jane Winters; paternal grandparents, Bob
and Brenda Lewis; aunt and uncle, Sarah and Jason Campbell; cousin, Ethan; uncles: John Spurgeon
and James Spurgeon; several great aunts, great uncles and cousins.
Private services will be held with Minister Greg Alderman to officiate.
At other times, the family will receive friends at the home in Shady Valley, TN.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at mountaincityfh.com.
Page 18 of 35
The family of Zoe Claire Lewis has entrusted her services to Mountain City Funeral Home, 224 S.
Church Street, Mountain City, TN 37683.
Winter Celebration
By Dennis Shekinah
In spite of the looming winter storm, 33 WG members braved the trip up to Vikki’s beautiful Iron
Mountain Inn B&B for our Winter Celebration. The simple decorations and the warm fire in Vikki’s
fireplace set the stage for a heartfelt gathering. To view a few photos of this event, visit the Watauga
Group’s Facebook photo page and scroll down to the images labeled with "WG's Winter Celebration
2014” at the link at the end of this article. You do not need to be a member of Facebook to view
these pics. These added photos will conclude this year’s pictorial history of our group. Take a look at
all the faces who were able to show up and get some good work accomplished. We all look forward to
a great year of accomplishments in 2015!
Dean Whitworth was nominated for our Environmental Hero Award this year. Dean’s history as an
environmental activist was outlined in Gloria’s spoken tribute, reprinted here:
Our 2014 Environmental Hero is a Chemical Engineer and actor by profession; conservationist by
choice and dedication; and proud Appalachian mountain man.
He grew up in the hills of Tennessee and learned an appreciation for conservation of the land early in
life.
He became a dedicated environmentalist because he came home from a movie to find blue paint on
trees behind his home and learned they were marked for cutting. This made him mad so he found out
how to stop it.
He is a lifetime Sierra Club member. He is a member of Cherokee Forest Voices since 1992, where he
serves as treasurer. He is a founding member of the Watauga Group of the TN Chapter Sierra Club
and Watauga Watershed Alliance serving on their Executive and Steering Committees. He has also
served on the boards of Southern Appalachian Forest Coalition and Appalachian Voices.
He has written many articles on the environment and helped produce a WETS radio show on NPR for
7 years called “Environmental News”.
The following remarks were taken from an interview our honoree gave to Appalachian Voice about
grassroots organizing. It sums up his thoughts on ‘working together to make a difference’.
“I have been a professional in environmental work but most of my experience has been as a volunteer
working with volunteers….Four times out of five, I fail. Whatever horrible thing I was trying to prevent
happened anyway or whatever logical thing I was trying to make happen never happened. But that
fifth time something amazing occurred. I’ve no idea what I said or did or when I said it or did it but the
reaction was as if a match was struck to dry brush on a windy day. A critical mass of people organized
who trusted each other completely and shared a common goal. Each member of that group was
completely committed to realizing the vision. Each member was self-motivated. Each member knew
that if they were unable to accomplish an assumed task that someone would step in and help. And
each member of the group was willing to do the same for their colleagues. Such a group is all but
invincible. They won. They were out spent and out politicked by order of magnitude. They still found a
way to win.”
Page 19 of 35
Some of the campaigns and projects our 2014 Hero and
this group have helped work on are: The Concentrated
Animal Feeding Operation, Radford Asphalt plant, Town
of Beach Mountain water grab of Watauga River,
Watauga Waterkeeper, Watauga Lake Cleanup, the
Johnson County Trails Association and the Johnson
County Farmers Market.
We honor and applaud our 2014 Environmental Hero,
Dean Whitworth.
We are truly blessed to have such experience and
commitment within our group. Thank you all for being a
part of one of the most positive organizations to thrive in
these mountains.
Facebook Link:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.4539029247
09288.1073741833.347233055376276&type=1&l=11b6966
5a8
Things To Do
Heritage Hall News
Heritage Hall will go black until mid February. However,
the 2015 line up is exciting with returns such as “Keep on
the Sunnyside”, Wayne Henderson & Jeff Little, Kody
Norris, Robin & Linda Williams, Steve Sensenig, and
JCHS’s “Grease”, but we’re also looking forward to first
time events such as Symphony of the Mtns’ Brass
Ensemble, Carson Peters’ Band, Mike Taylor’s Laurel
Creek Band, and Blue Highway, along with JCCT’s
”Dashing Thru the Snow”& “Nine to Five”
Supporting Heritage Hall is a great way to support
Johnson County since we serve the area with great live
entertainment and offer an affordable arena for local
school & organization events. Please help us keep the
lights on at Heritage Hall by attending events and/or
becoming a Curtain Raiser.
Heritage Hall is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the area with great shows and pricing.
For more information about Heritage Hall, visit heritagehalltheatre.org. Most tickets are $10 advance
and $12 at door. Most youth seats are $5. For tickets, or reservations, call 423-727-7444 and leave a
message. The Box Office will reopen in February. heritagehalltheatre.org.
CHRISTMAS TREES: This week, we just had someone donate the 4-H club a field of Frazier Fir
Christmas trees. The landowner has just recently purchased the property and the Christmas trees will
all be removed before next year, so he is donating them to the 4-H club to use as a fund raiser. Since
this has come at such a late notice, we are going to offer these trees to anyone interested in coming
to the farm on a choose-and-cut basis. We would just request that you make a donation to the
Johnson County 4-H club. The farm is located on Cobb Creek Road in Butler, TN.
If you or someone you know might be interested in getting one of the trees, please call the Extension
office at 727-8161 and we will be glad to give you the information on how you can obtain one of
these trees.
ON-GOING GED / HiSET CLASSES: GED / HiSET classes are “up and running” this Fall!! Don’t get
left behind. If you are in need of your High School Equivalency Diploma, now is the time to pursue it.
Day and Night classes are in “full swing”, both in Johnson and Carter Counties, and we also offer
ESOL classes in Johnson Co. and will soon be offering ESOL classes in Carter Co. in the near future!
Stay tuned for updates….Graduation for all our graduates will be this Spring. Don’t miss it! For
information or enrollment/orientation to our Adult Ed. program, please call 727-2654 (Johnson Co)
or 518-1212 (Carter Co.) Hope to see you soon.
Page 20 of 35
GED/HiSET classes are ongoing this winter, and the OFFICIAL GED TEST is taking place here in
Johnson County at the Old Shouns School on December 18!
Don’t miss this opportunity to earn your GED/High School Equivalency Diploma while also
qualifying for a chance to win a $100 Visa Gift card – just in time for the Holidays!
With a $50 voucher also being offered for each qualifying student, NOW is the time to earn your
GED! Call Carol at (423)727-2654 today!
[Certain restrictions apply]
FREE MOUNTAIN CITY HEALTH CLINIC: On
Thursday, December 18, 2014: 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM, ETSU
Student Center, Kellogg Drive Mountain City, (pass the
Phoenix Medical office, next to the old Levi Strauss
building). TN Walk-Ins only! Services to include: Sick
Walk-Ins, Cholesterol Check, Blood glucose, Additional
Blood work if indicated, Physicals, Sports physicals,
School physicals, Blood Pressure, Height and Weight,
Hearing Exam, EKG if indicated, PAP smear and
Women’s Health, Men’s Health and Physicals, and Lung
Function Screening. For more information please
contact Carolyn Sliger, (423) 439-6737 [email protected]. This event is being brought to you by James
H. Quillen College of Medicine of ETSU, Third Year Medical students, Physicians and Mt. States
Health Alliance.
JOHNSON COUNTY GOVERNMENT NEWS
The Johnson County Commission will meet Thursday, December 18 2014 at 7:00 pm in the Johnson
County Courthouse Upper Courtroom, 222 West Main Street, Mountain City Tennessee.
The Budget Committee will meet at 6:00 pm prior to the County Commission meeting in the Lower
Courtroom, 222 West Main Street, Mountain City Tennessee.
The Johnson County Solid Waste Committee will meet Monday December 22, 2014 at 5:00 p.m. in
the Lower Courtroom to discuss the solid waste disposal contract.
DMRA MEETING NOTICES: All DMRA meeting notices, minutes and agendas will be posted on
doemountain.org. Tim Horne, a Johnson County native, was selected by the DMRA to serve as
webmaster. Meeting notices will also be announced via The Mountain Sentinel, The Tomahawk,
WMCT, and the Johnson County Chamber of Commerce website johnsoncountytnchamber.org
(select county info tab, then events/meetings). Should you require additional information, you may
call 423-727-9696 or email [email protected]
DMRA MEETING SCHEDULE: December 2014 & January 2015
The Doe Mountain Recreation Authority Board’s December and January meetings have been
cancelled.
The DMRA Marketing & Outreach committee meets 1st Monday of each month at 5:30 pm, Johnson
County Courthouse lower courtroom, 222 West Main St., Mountain City, TN.
DMRA Administration committee meets 3rd Wednesday of each month at 11:00 a.m., Johnson County
Mayor’s Office, 222 West Main Street, Mountain City Tennessee.
DMRA Roads & Trails Committee meets 4th Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m., Johnson County
Courthouse lower courtroom, 222 West Main Street, Mountain City Tennessee.
FREE MEDICAL SERVICE: Crossroads Medical Mission, the free medical service sponsored by First
United Methodist Church, comes to Mountain City’s St. Anthony’s Church, where a food pantry is
also located, on the first Thursday of each month. The next clinic is January 6. Patients are seen
beginning at 9:00. Crossroads is a mobile medical clinic and Christian mission providing free
healthcare to the uninsured and underserved of the Mountain Empire. The Doctor’s Office on Wheels
provides medical care and can often help with testing, lab work, minor surgeries, and in some
instances medications. For more information, call Crossroads Office at 276-466-1600. Schedules and
directions can be found on the internet at crossroadsmedicalmission.org If schools in area are closed
for weather, the clinic will be canceled.
Page 21 of 35
ADVERTISERS: If you keep your listing out there where
customers can see it each week, they will automatically
think of you when the time comes that they need your
product or service. Advertising pays!
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: First United
Methodist Church, 128 N. Church St., has an open heart,
an open mind, and an open door for all to come in and be
welcomed by a gracious and friendly church family. We
have a traditional service with strong preaching,
children’s church, and an exceptional music program. One
of our major areas of concern is local missions to which
we donate, along with member contributions, the
earnings from our Unique Boutique, located behind the
church on Butler Street. Each Sunday morning Coffee
begins at 9:30; Sunday School at 10:00; and Morning
Worship at 11:00. mountaincitymethodist.org
COMMUNITY NOTICE: The office hours for groundwater
protection services (septic permits) are available on
Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., in the County Mayor’s office, 222 West Main Street,
Mountain City TN 37683. To schedule an appointment to meet with the environmentalist, please
call Mr. J.K. Perkins at (423) 547-5885 or (423) 298-5355.
WEATHER TRENDS: Keeping an eye on weather conditions? Check the weather page online at
themountainsentinel.com
REECE CEMETERY MAINTENANCE: The Reece Cemetery on Bulldog Road in Trade has been nicely
maintained by donors whose family members are buried there, and we really appreciate that
assistance. If you have one or more family members in this cemetery, and would like to continue to
or begin to donate money toward its upkeep, please send your contribution to Bobby Wills, 903
Harbin Hill Rd., Mtn. City, TN 37683. Also, if you are interested in mowing this cemetery, please send
your bid to the same address.
CHILDREN'S STORYTIME: Join us at the Johnson County Library the second Friday of each month
for stories and poems. Hope to see you there!
JCHSI RECYCLING PROGRAMS: As part of our fundraising to help the animals of Johnson County,
the Johnson County Humane Society collects aluminum cans for recycling. Our collection bins are at
the Mountain City Food Lion (just outside the north entrance near the soda machines and phones)
and at the Mountain City Food Country (in between the east entrance and Auto Zone, next to the
soda machines). Both bins have a magnet embedded in the lid. If a can sticks to a magnet, it's not
aluminum and we can't use it.
UNIQUE BOUTIQUE OPEN: Unique Boutique, sponsored by First United Methodist Church, is a
thrift store with something for everyone. Located at 122 Butler Lane in Mountain City, you can shop
on Wednesdays, when the ‘open’ sign is out, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Over 80% of all profits made at
the thrift store are donated to community organizations and local missions. None of the money
leaves the community.
CANS TO CASH PROGRAM: The A.C.T.I.O.N. Coalition/Johnson County Volunteer Center is
recycling aluminum cans to fund youth programming in the county. You can drop your aluminum
cans off at the A.C.T.I.O.N. Coalition Office on 138 East Main St. from 8 am to 4 pm M-F. The cans
must be in bags when they are dropped off. For further information on the collection of aluminum
cans, you may contact Denise Woods at 727-0780.
TRADE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: Sunday Worship 9:30 am; Sunday School 10:45 am;
Wednesday Choir Rehearsal 6:30 pm; Holy Communion is the first Sunday of each month.
trademethodist.org
REGULAR ORGANIZATION MEETINGS:
A.C.T.I.O.N. COALITION, INC.: The ACTION Coalition meetings are on the 3rd Tuesday of each
month at the Community Center @ 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. jctnac.org Contact Person: Angela Wills,
727-0780
Page 22 of 35
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: AA meets on Thursday at
7:00 p.m. at the community center. Call Chuck at 7680643 for more info.
AMATEUR RADIO CLUB: The Johnson County Amateur
Radio Club meets in the conference room at the Johnson
County Hospital. The meetings are on the 2nd Tues. of
each month at 7:00 P.M.. For information, call Danny
Herman [K4DHT] AT 423-727-0723.
BUTLER RURITAN: meets the 4th Monday of every
month at the Butler Ruritan Hall. Time is 6:30 PM for the
potluck and 7:00 PM meeting. We welcome any interested
seasonal and permanent residents, as well as businesses,
to our meetings. Located just one block off Hwy. 67, on
Piercetown Rd., above the Butler Fire Dept. Inquiries? Call
423-768-3936 or 423-768-3159.
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: The J.C. Chamber is
organized for the purpose of advancing the economic,
industrial, professional, cultural and civil welfare of the
Johnson County area. The Chamber meetings are each month on the 3rd Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. at the
Johnson County Welcome Center. johnsoncountytnchamber.org/
CROSSROADS MEDICAL MISSION: Crossroads Medical Mission is held the first Thursday of each
month at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. They perform urgent care, screenings,
minor surgery, patient education, referrals, pharmacy and labs. This is done without regard to one’s
ability to pay, although they will accept donations. This service is open to the public, and is
sponsored by the First United Methodist Church.
FIBROMYALGIA SUPPORT GROUP: Fibromyalgia support group meetings are held the first
Tuesday of each month at 2 p.m., Pleasant Grove Baptist Church 3385 Roan Creek Rd Mountain City,
TN 37683.Enter through lower level rear door. 423-727-0345.
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY: Meets quarterly and supports the library through fund-raising events
Contact Linda Icenhour 727-6544 for details.
HIGHER GROUND PEER SUPPORT GROUP: This is a social support group for those recovering
from mental illness and/or substance abuse. Call 727-8685 for more information. We are now open
three days a week Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday) from 9 - 5. Activities are subject to change,
and Higher Ground does not run a pickup service on those days with snow.
JOHNSON COUNTY TRAILS COMMITTEE: Meets as needed throughout the year. For more
information email [email protected], visit johnsoncountytrails.org, or write to P.O.
Box 16 Mountain City, TN 37683
MOUNTAIN CITY NAMI: NAMI is a support and education group for people with a mental illness
and for their family, friends and caregivers. Someone you know has a mental illness. That's why there
is NAMI. Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month, 7:00 pm, at 1404 Crossroads Drive.
Call Coy Lauer at 727-4794 for more information.
NEWCOMERS CLUB: The Newcomer’s Club will be meeting the second Thursday of each month at
6:30 pm. If you’re new to the area and enjoy good food, conversation, and meeting new friends,
please come and join us! Contact Carol Frank at 727-5487 for directions and other information.
ROTARY CLUB: The Mountain City chapter of Rotary International, a service organization with
both local and international projects, meets on the 2nd and 4th Mondays at noon at the Library
conference room For more info, call Howard Moon at 727-3009.
SENIOR CITIZENS ADVISORY COUNCIL: We meet on the 3rd Wednesday @ noon in the center.
Call 727-8883 for more info.
SHADY VALLEY RURITAN CLUB: Regular meeting dates: 2nd Thursday of each month. Contact
person: Jean Sparger 739-4326
Page 23 of 35
TEA PARTY MEETING: TAFL TEA Party Meeting. When: Monthly on the 4th Tuesday of each
month. Where: American Legion Hall on Hwy. 91 in Mountain City (North Church St.), TN.
Time: 6:30 PM until ? Free Admission and free finger food and drinks
UNITED WAY OF MOUNTAIN CITY/JOHNSON COUNTY: Regular meeting dates: monthly – then
weekly during campaign. Contact person: Judy McGuire 423-727-6737
WATAUGA WATERSHED ALLIANCE/SIERRA CLUB: Meets the 2nd Tuesday of every month.
Contact Gloria 423-727-4797 or Dennis 423-534-4804 for details.
O Holy Night
By Wanda Payne
For well over a decade, the First United Methodist
Church family has welcomed the community to
their Christmas Eve service. For several years,
FUMC was one of the few churches in the entire
county to provide this service, and because of that,
the sanctuary was often packed for the five p.m.
gathering.
However, even though there are more choices on
Christmas Eve, the 5 p.m. service is still quite
popular because it enables those who gather with
friends and relatives for traditional parties to be able to experience both the sacred and the secular
celebrations.
Another reason FUMC’s service is still popular is the inspirational ambiance that is always present
during the scripture, the message, the singing, and the sharing of Holy Communion. Once those
present have been touched by the candlelight, the music, and the words that evoke the true spirit of
Christmas, they usually return for more. It is this presence of the spirit that we seek and find at a
sacred service such as this. It is peace that passes all understanding for which we hunger especially
during the time unending demands on our time and our purses.
So, if you need to be lifted up and inspired during this time of hustle and bustle, you are cordially
invited to escape for an hour to the peace and inspiration of FUMC’s Christmas Eve Service at 5p.m.
on December 24.
Our Blue Planet
Rosemary Tree Maintenance Tips
This aromatic plant used as an herbal seasoning in cooking can make
a wonderful table-top Christmas tree. However, they won’t survive
outside during the winters in northeast Tennessee. They make great
houseplants.
Those petite rosemary Christmas trees you see at the home
improvement store, in the market and at your local nursery are
charming to look at, but can be a bear to maintain.
Because they look and smell so wonderful, they're almost
irresistible. If you just have to adopt one of these seasonal
beauties, make sure to take a look at the tips below.
Rosemary Tree Care
Consider the future. Rosemary can't tolerate a hard frost. There are
some exceptions -- cultivars designed to survive to, say, U.S. Zone
5, but the rosemary varieties typically employed for topiary trees won't survive outdoors in the snow
-- ever. If you live in a cold climate and plan on keeping your rosemary tree after the holidays, you'll
have to maintain your shrub indoors until the weather warms up in spring. Next fall you'll have to
bring it back inside, so be sure to keep it in a pot. Overwintering patio plants indoors is a common
practice. You may even come to enjoy it and consider your plant commuters part of your extended
family.
Page 24 of 35
Don't repot. Rosemary doesn't like to be repotted until it
is root bound. If you like to give your houseplants a great
start in life by repotting specimens as soon as you get
them home, resist the urge. Wait until mid-spring or early
summer.
Watch the heat. Keep rosemary away from heat sources
like warm electronics and heat registers.
Find good light. Although you can place your tree in a
decorative spot like on top of your coffee table or on your
dining table, if there isn't much sun in your preferred
location, the tree will suffer. Ideally, you want to provide
around six hours of light for your tree every day.
It should be good light, too. That means light bright
enough to cast a shadow on the floor when you hold your
hand in a sunbeam. An unobstructed eastern exposure is
good. A southern exposure is probably better in most
areas. Light is important for the plant, but you can cheat
by placing it in a decorative low-light location for a day or
so and then putting it back in a well illuminated area for a couple of days. Rosemary Christmas trees
are typically small, so moving one around isn't much of a hardship -- but it may mean life or death
for your plant.
Be careful when watering. If you've killed rosemary trees in the past, the problem was probably with
watering. Indoor rosemary is persnickety about water. You might have concluded that the dry indoor
conditions warranted frequent watering, but this is deceptive. Rosemary will rest over the winter and
doesn't really need much in the way of water or nourishment. It does need humidity, though. Water
once a week, but mist the plant a couple of times a day. Maintain a layer of mulch at the soil line. It
will hold the misted moisture and release it slowly.
Another good idea is to keep your rosemary tree with a group of houseplants when you're not using it
as decoration. The combined humidity created by the plants produces a favorable microclimate your
rosemary will like.
Remove the decorations. Those cute decorations wrapped around the branches of your rosemary are
not the plant's friend. Remove them if you can bear to. Otherwise, loosen them, and hopefully they
won't cause too much damage to adjacent needles and supporting stems.
Remove the paper wrapper. The cheerful gold, red or green wrapper around your rosemary tree's pot
can create a dangerous condition by trapping water. When the roots of rosemary sit in water, they
die. When the roots die, the plant starves to death. You can handle this a couple of ways: Remove the
wrapper; always dump any residual water a half-hour after watering the plant; place a tray outfitted
with a layer of marbles (or stones) between the wrapper and the pot. The water will drain down to the
tray away from the plant's roots and you'll still have the decorative benefit of the attractive
wrapping.
Caring for Rosemary Christmas Trees and Choosing a Rosemary Tree - Final Words (Really!)
Rosemary trees sold as Christmas decorations have a beautiful triangular habit like real Christmas
trees. This isn't natural. This isn't close to being natural for rosemary. Immature plants whacked and
tortured into this shape are likely suffering from shock and need pretty favorable conditions in which
to recuperate. Watch for drooping or dry needles that may indicate trouble ahead. If you follow the
recommendations above, you will probably be able to salvage the plant and have a viable specimen
after the holidays are over.
If you haven't purchased a rosemary Christmas tree yet:



Look for a bright green, vigorous plant.
Run your hand along its stems to make sure the needles aren't shedding (an important sign of
problems).
Check the decorative wrapper (if you can) for standing water under the pot, and reject any plants
that have been sitting in water.
Page 25 of 35

If you do find a specimen you like and plan on transporting it in cold weather, protect the plant
by placing it in a protective bag for the trip home. A paper bag provides the best insulation from
the cold. Don't linger for a nice lunch out. Even an hour in a winter cold car can hurt the survival
prospects for most houseplants.
Good luck.
Source: http://theherbgardener.blogspot.com/2011/11/rosemary-tree-maintenance-tips.html
Year-End Newsletter
By Lamar Alexander
As the year comes to an end, I’d like to share with you some of
what I’ve been working on in Tennessee and Washington:
Preparing to fix our broken system as part of a new
Republican majority in the U.S. Senate
In November, Americans elected a new Republican Senate
majority determined to fix our broken system in Washington and
move our country in a new direction. When the new Republican
majority takes over in the new year, I am ready to hit the ground
running with proposals to grow jobs, turn our health care system
in the direction of more choices and lower costs, return control
over our public schools to communities and classroom teachers,
and put an end to the Obama administration’s unconstitutional
overreach into so many areas of Americans’ lives. I look forward
to accomplishing these goals in a way Tennesseans know well—working with others to get results.
Encouraging job growth in Tennessee and keeping Washington out of the way
Throughout the past few months, I had the opportunity to attend several groundbreaking and
ribbon-cutting ceremonies across Tennessee, all celebrating good, new jobs being created around the
state. Because of our state’s strong right-to-work law and low taxes, Tennessee continues to be one
of the country’s most attractive states for companies to invest and create new jobs.
Preventing the spread of Ebola in Tennessee and around the nation
Since the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, I pressed for a more urgent response from the United States
and other countries to prevent the spread of this deadly disease. It is clear that this is a threat we
should be taking as seriously as that of ISIS. Last week, the Senate passed legislation I introduced to
spur the development of vaccines and drugs to prevent and treat Ebola, with hopes that this will one
day help lead to a cure. It is expected to be signed into law any day now. Throughout the past few
months, I held several forums across Tennessee to discuss how hospitals and the state and local
health departments were preparing for a potential Ebola outbreak.
You can watch me discuss the threat from Ebola here (1) and here (2). Click here (3) to read more
about my visit to Vanderbilt University to learn more about the disease and their research to combat
it.
Helping more Tennesseans go to college by simplifying student aid
In June, Senator Michael Bennet and I released a draft proposal that would simplify the complicated
federal student aid form, one of the principal obstacles to a free college education for many students.
This proposal would reduce the complex 108-question federal student aid application to two
questions, and would also streamline federal student loan and grant programs, allow year-round use
of Pell Grants, discourage over-borrowing and simplify repayment options. In the past few months, I
visited several colleges and universities across Tennessee where I discussed my proposal with school
officials, students, and parents.
This is one of the many proposals I plan to push as chairman of the Senate committee on Health,
Education, Labor, and Pensions when Republicans take the majority next year. Read more here (4) on
my plan to reform No Child Left Behind to return responsibility to states and local communities to
create and implement their own education standards and tests, evaluate teachers and principals, and
improve schools. We also need to get rid of ObamaCare and repair the damage it has caused as
rapidly and responsibly as possible with step-by-step proposals to increase freedom and choice and
to reduce the cost of health insurance.
Page 26 of 35
Fighting to secure the border and stop the president’s
executive amnesty agenda
Last month, the president announced he is going to
bypass Congress and unilaterally give amnesty to 5
million illegal immigrants currently living in our country.
Our immigration system is broken and our border is a
mess. Rather than acting like a king, the president should
be working with Congress to secure the border and create
a system of legal immigration – not disregarding the rule
of law and the will of the American people.
References:
1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tB_UnMaPEw&list=UUhDLBjn5RWqgMmCSswT05IQ
2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJWLULlfWuM&li
st=UUhDLBjn5RWqgMmCSswT05IQ
3. http://www.alexander.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pr
essreleases?ID=905b5a4e-e6ed-4dd4-acb8972902b0410d
4. http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/right-turn/wp/2014/12/02/school-reform-can-movebeyond-common-core/
Congressional Voting
Congress, except roll call in the Senate, if now adjourned until January 3.
The votes are arranged by date from the oldest to newest.
Suspension of the rules is typically used to pass non-controversial bills. Votes under suspension
require a 2/3rds majority. A failed vote under suspension can be taken again.
Motion to recommit provides one final opportunity for the House to debate and amend a measure,
typically after the engrossment and third reading of the bill, before the Speaker orders the vote on
final passage. The motion is the prerogative of the Minority party and in many cases constitutes the
Minority’s one opportunity to obtain a vote on an alternative or a proposal to improve the measure.
Cloture means to end debate so that an up-or-down vote can be taken. A vote in favor is a vote to
end debate and move to a vote on the issue itself, while a vote against is a vote to prolong debate or
to filibuster.
On the Nomination PN2135: Jeffery Martin Baran, of Virginia, to be a Member of the Nuclear
Regulatory Commission for the remainder of the term expiring June 30, 2018
Dec 8, 2014 5:32 p.m. — Vote
Nomination Confirmed 52/40
Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay
Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Nay
Page 27 of 35
On the Nomination PN2124: Lauren McGarity
McFerran, of the District of Columbia, to be a Member
of the National Labor Relations Board for the term of
five years expiring December 16, 2019
Dec 8, 2014 5:58 p.m. — Vote
Nomination Confirmed 54/40
Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay
Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Nay
On the Cloture Motion PN1987: Virginia Tyler Lodge,
of Tennessee, to be a Member of the Board of
Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority for a
term expiring May 18, 2019
Dec 9, 2014 10:33 a.m. — Vote
Cloture Motion Agreed to 63/32
Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Yea
Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea
On the Cloture Motion PN1988: Ronald Anderson Walter, of Tennessee, to be a Member of
the Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority for a term expiring May 18, 2019
Dec 9, 2014 11:02 a.m. — Vote
Cloture Motion Agreed to 65/31
Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Yea
Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea
On Motion to Recommit with Instructions: H.R. 5781: California Emergency Drought Relief
Act of 2014
Dec 9, 2014 1:43 p.m. — Vote
Failed 182/228
Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Nay
H.R. 5781: California Emergency Drought Relief Act of 2014
Dec 9, 2014 1:52 p.m. — Vote
Passed 230/182
Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Aye
On the Nomination PN1987: Virginia Tyler Lodge, of Tennessee, to be a Member of the Board
of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority for a term expiring May 18, 2019
Dec 9, 2014 6:07 p.m. — Vote
Nomination Confirmed 86/12
Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Yea
Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea
On the Nomination PN1988: Ronald Anderson Walter, of Tennessee, to be a Member of the
Board of Directors of the Tennessee Valley Authority for a term expiring May 18, 2019
Dec 9, 2014 6:31 p.m. — Vote
Nomination Confirmed 86/12
Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Yea
Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea
H.Res. 775: Providing for consideration of the bill (S. 2244) to extend the termination date of
the Terrorism Insurance Program ...
Dec 10, 2014 2:27 p.m. — Vote
Page 28 of 35
Passed 231/189
Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Yea
S. 1000: Chesapeake Bay Accountability and Recovery Act of 2014
Dec 10, 2014 2:36 p.m. — Vote
Passed 416/0
Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Yea
On Approving the Journal
Dec 10, 2014 2:47 p.m. — Vote
Passed 261/155
Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Nay
S. 2244: Terrorism Risk Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2014
Dec 10, 2014 4:56 p.m. — Vote
Passed 417/7
Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Yea
H.R. 4681: Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015
Dec 10, 2014 5:04 p.m. — Vote
Passed 325/100
Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Nay
H.R. 2719: Transportation Security Acquisition Reform Act
Dec 10, 2014 5:12 p.m. — Vote
Passed 425/0
Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Yea
H.R. 1204: Aviation Security Stakeholder Participation Act of 2013
Dec 10, 2014 5:19 p.m. — Vote
Passed 416/5
Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Yea
Cloture on H.R. 3979: Emergency Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2014
Dec 11, 2014 10:33 a.m. — Vote
Cloture Motion Agreed to 85/14
Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Yea
Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Nay
H.Res. 776: Providing for consideration of the Senate amendment to the bill (H.R. 83) to
require the Secretary of the ...
Dec 11, 2014 12:15 p.m. — Vote
Passed 214/212
Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Yea
H.R. 5806: Supporting America’s Charities Act
Dec 11, 2014 12:26 p.m. — Vote
Failed 275/149
Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Yea
H.R. 83: Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015
Dec 11, 2014 9:37 p.m. — Vote
Passed 219/206
Page 29 of 35
Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Yea
H.R. 5699: John Muir National Historic Site Expansion Act
Dec 11, 2014 9:49 p.m. — Vote
Passed 361/39
Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Yea
On the Motion to Refer H.R. 3979
Dec 12, 2014 4:01 p.m. — Vote
Motion to Refer Rejected 18/82
Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay
Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea
On the Decision of the Chair H.R. 3979
Dec 12, 2014 4:29 p.m. — Vote
Decision of Chair Sustained 55/45
Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay
Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Nay
H.R. 3979: Emergency Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2014
Dec 12, 2014 4:48 p.m. — Vote
Motion Agreed to 89/11
Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Yea
Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea
On the Nomination PN1937: David Nathan Saperstein, of the District of Columbia, to be
Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom
Dec 12, 2014 5:25 p.m. — Vote
Nomination Confirmed 62/35
Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Yea
Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea
Court Dockets
Editor’s Note: We’re trying to make this information readable. If you find mistakes, please excuse our
errors. We’re working on it! And, I’m trying to learn the language and abbreviations.
GENERAL SESSIONS COURT - JOHNSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE
HONORABLE WILLIAM B. HAWKINS, PRESIDING - DECEMBER 17, 2014 DOCKET
Roni Danielle Ambrocio - Gs-14-Tr-1465/ Cr 1: Speeding/ THP Wills, Ct 2; Child Restraint, Ct 3:
Unreg Vehicle
Michael Edward Anderson - 8085 I-V/VOP To be Dismissed If Fines, Court Cost, & Probation Fees
Paid in Full
Laura Hampton Arnold - PD 7913r-V/ VOP/ To be Dismissed if Paid in Full
Sandra W Baumgardner – Status – PD - Gs-2014-Cr-323/ Assault Involving DV/ Dep. Roark
Tracy M Beam - Gs- 2014-Tr-1487/ Speeding/THP Wills
Brook Michelle Benadom – TBI Cert – PD - Gs-14-Ck-631/ Dui 1st / Patrolman Brown
Robert J. Blankenship - Gs-I4-Cr-564/ DOSL 1st / Light Law / Dep Curd
Christopher Blevins - Gs-14-TR-1435/ Speeding/ THP Tester
Adam Bowers - Gs-14-TR-1390/ Speeding – Seatbelt / THP Wills
Lawrence Bradshaw - Gs-14-Tr-1380/ Dorl/THP Wills - Gs-14.Tr-1381/ Seatbelt
Britany L. Brown – Hearing – PD - State To Notify - Gs-14-CR -647/ Assault / Cecilia Hammons
Page 30 of 35
Herbert A Brown Jr - Gs-14-TR-1500/ Speeding /THP Wills
Bryan Stacy Bryant – GS -I4-CR-726/ Domestic Assault/DORL 3rd / Dep Eller
Darien K. Bryant – GS-14-TR-1379/DOSL/Patrolman Fritts
Christopher J. Bunn – Hearing – Pectol – State to Notify-Gs-14-CR-543- Burglary, Theft of Property/
Dep Eller
Daniel L. Callahan – GS-13-CR-1524-V/VOP/CCI
Anthony Campbell - R- 130/ Speeding/ THP Tester
Timothy Zane Church – Hearing – PD – State to Notify - GS-2014-CR-387/ Reckless Driving
Involving DV/ Reckless Endangerment 2 cts. / Dep Cress
Israel Coffey - GS-14-TR-1378/ Speeding/THP Wills
Justin Cole – GS-14-TR-1433/ Speeding/THP Tester
Howard Cooper - GS-14-TR-1409/ Speeding & Fin. Resp. /THP Tester
Chelsea Cornett - GS-14-TR- 1480/ Ct 1: Speeding & Seatbelt/ THP Wills
Jennifer Davis – GS-14-TR-1463/ Speeding / THP Wills
Timothy Brian Day – Hearing - State To Notify – PD - Gs-14-Cr-520/ Assault Involving Domestic
Abuse/ Patrolman C. Brown
Madison A Debord - Gs-11-Cr-690/ DUI 1st & VICL/ Crpl Cress
Jennifer Dixion – 84310 / Shoplifting / DIV Dismissal – PD
CRIMINAL COURT DOCKET - THE HONORABLE STACY L. STREET, PRESIDING
JOHNSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE - MONDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2014
#
1
2
3
CASE
2014CR-2
2014CFA-92
2013CR-119
4
6258
5
5672
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
6729
2014CR-78
2014CR-79
2014CR-3
2014CR-164
2014CR-125 •
2014CR-141
2013CR-52
DEFENDANT
JEWELL E. AKERS,
#204634
MICHAEL EDWARD
ANDERSON
CHARLES EUGENE
BENNETT
ERIC JOSEPH
BLACKBURN
# 222533
PEGGY FRITTS BLEVINS
ATTORNEY
ACTION
ARR
CHARGE
1. Poss. Contraband in
Penal
1. Theft o/$1,000 but
u/$10,000
1. Conspiracy to
Commit Arson
STATUS
4-1-14 GuiltyJury Trial
New Trial
Pymt. Status
1. Aggd. Assault as
Dom. Violence
2. Resisting Arrest
1. DUI 2nd
Pymt. Status
2. DORL
1.DUI 2"11
ARR
Bowman
Motions
Stout
Jury Trial Salt
2/12-13/2015
Motion for
PEGGY FRITTS BLEVINS
RICKY J. BOYD
To Hire
ARR
2.DORL
1. Theft oi$1,000
VIRGINIA D. DAMRON
BOYD
NICHOLAS BUNCH,.
#431328
MONTREZ E.DUNCAN,
#352568
To Hire
ARR
1. Theft .o/$11000
. ARR
ARR
1. Poss. Contraband in
Penal
1. Reckless Homicide
ARR
2.Tampering
w/Evidence
1. Child Abuse
ARR
1. Prom. Manuf. Meth.
ARR
1. Poss. Contraband in
Penal
ROBY BRANDON DUNN
BILLY WAYNE
FORRESTER
SEAN
GOODPASTURE,#422634
Pro Se
Judgment 8-1211
Judgment 8-1211
Page 31 of 35
#
14
15
16
17
CASE
2014CR-119
2013CR-216
2014CR-84
2014CR-89
DEFENDANT
FRANKLIN DALE
GRAYSON,JR.
ATTORNEY
MINNIE LOUISE
GRIFFITH
MINNE LOUISE
GRIFFITH
JAMES MARVIN
JENNINGS,JR.
ACTION
ARR
CHARGE
1. Maintain Dwelling
ARR
2. Init. Proc. Manuf.
Meth.
3. Poss. Sch. II
w/Intent to Sale
4. Felony Poss. Drug
Paraph.
1.
DOSL 3rd
ARR
2.
3.
1.
Light Law
Financ. Reports.
Forgery © 3 Cts.
Theft u/$500 @
ARR
2.
5 Cts.
1.
DUI 1ST
18
5686
TAMMY JERELENE
LASSITER
Stout
VOP 1st1
2.
Viol. Financ.
Respons.
1. DUI 1st (11-26-09)
19
5699
TAMMY JERELENE
LASSITER
Stout
& Pay Status
VOP 1ST
1.. DUI 1ST (4-21-10)
& Pay Status
ARR
1. Sale Sch. ll @ 2 Cts.
ARR
1. DOSL 4Th
20
2014CR-129
DEBRA LYNN LATHAM
21
2014CR-115
RONZELLA. WRIGHT
LOFTLY
Stout
Aptd.
No AF ATT
2. Speeding 69/55
3. Viol. Financ.
Respons.
1. Burglary (Not
Habitual)
1. Burglary (Not
Habitual)
1. Theft of Property
22
5078
JAMES RUSSELL MASON
23
5099
JAMES RUSSELL MASON
24
5130
JAMES RUSSELL MASON
26
6191
JAMES RUSSELL MASON
26
2014CR-140
MARY GENE MCDANIEL
ARR
27
- 2014CR-142
MARY GENE MCDANIEL
ARR
28
21)14CR-120
IRA MARSHALL OAKS
ARR
29
31
4650
32
5493
DOUGLAS LYNN
OSBORNE
JERRY FRANKLIN
OWENS
JERRY FRANKLIN
OWENS
.
JERRY FRANKLIN
OWENS
ARR
30
2414-C
R-121
4293
STATUS
VOP 4TH
1. Underage
Consumption
1.
Prom. Manuf.
Meth. (Dep.Stout 8-2614)
2.
DORL 2nd
3.
Theft o/$1,000
4.
Poss. Stolen
Vehicle (Dep. Greer 821-14)
5.
DORL 2nd
6.
Theft o/$1,000
1.
Obtaining
Narcotics by Fraud
2.
Criminal
Trespassing
1. Theft of Property
o/10,000
1. Delivery Sch. II
VOP 4TH
1. Sale Sch. II
VOP 2ND
1. Sale Sch. II
Judgment 5-1913
Judgment 5-1913
Judgment 1-2210
Judgment 1-2210
Judgment 1-2210
Judgment 1-2210
Judgment 9-2404
Judgment 3-1006
Judgment 5-1910
Page 32 of 35
#
33
CASE
5499
DEFENDANT
JAMES SCOTT PARSONS
34
5653
JAMES SCOTT PARSONS
35
2013CR-193
STEPHANIE MARIE
PATRICK
36
37
38
2014CR-117
20.14CR-91
AARON CHARLES
PAYNE
CHRISTOPHER
S.PENN1NGTON
2013CR-217
NORMAN CRAIG
PLEASANT
11-14-14 GRAND JURY
NO TRUE BILL
MELODY MADRON
POTEET
ATTORNEY
Fallin
ACTION
PDL
PDL
PD Sellers
PDL
$1000 AF
@
$100
Mo.Pymt
Bowman
ARR
ARR
VOP
2.
Speeding 64/45
3.
Open Container
1. Theft Under $500
CC t/b PIF
VOP
2. Failure to Appear
39
5907
40
5977
41
2014CR-116
42
2014CR-83
BRADLEY RAY PRICE
43
6158
GERALD M. RANDALL
VOP 1ST
JAMES RAY RASH
Summons
ARR
44
. 2014CR-147
ARR
ARR
**Def. in Federal
Custody
45
46
2014CR-72
2014CR-23
TERESA I. ROGERS
JONATHAN EDWARD
RODGERS
AAR
PD Sellers
Motions &
$1200 AF
@
$100 Mo.
Pymt.
Set Jury Trial
STATUS
2-24-10, FTA,
Capias, No
Bond
2.DOSL 1ST
3.Driving Left of Center
4.Reckless
Endangerment X3
5.Leay. Accident Scene
w/Prop. Damage
6.No Insurance
1. Failure to Appear (224-10)
1. Poss. Sc h. II for
Resale
1. Reckless
Endangerment (Felony)
1. Evading Arrest by
Motor Vehicle
2. Reckless
Endangerment
3. Speeding
4. Reckless Driving
5. Improper Passing
6. Viol. Financ. Repons.
1.
DUI 1ST
ARR
MELODY MADRON
POTEET
SHANNON LOUESE
PRATT
CHARGE
1.Evading Arrest
1.
Introd. Contrab.
In Penal
2.
Poss. Legend
Drugs w/o Prescip.
3.
Poss. Sch. II
1.
Reckless
Endangerment @ 2 Cts.
2.
Felony Evading
by Motor Vehicle
3.
DOSL 3rd
4.
Reckless
Driving
1. DORL 4th
Judgment 3-2312
Judgment 3-2312
Judgment 8-913
1.
Aggd. Assault
as Dom. Violence
2.
Resisting
Arrest/Stop/Frisk/Searcl
3.
DUI 1ST
1.
Theft o/$10,00
1. Burglary of Motor
Vehicle @ 2 Cts.
2. Poss. Burglary Tools
3. Theft o/$1,000
4. Vandalism
5. Criminal Trespassing
Page 33 of 35
#
47
48
CASE
2014CR-90
2013CR-200
DEFENDANT
TYLER LEE SLUDER
NICHOLAS
SENNEFELDER
ATTORNEY
PD Sellers
ACTION
ARR
CHARGE
1. Aggd. Assault
POL & SDR
2. Poss. Drug Paraph.
1. DUI 10-13-13
JCSD Quinn
No AF ATT
49
2013CR-213
NICHOLAS
SENNEFELDER
.
PD Sellers
PDL & SDR
No AF ATT
60
2014-C
R-51
NICHOLAS
SENNEFELDER
51
2014CR-73
4219
NICHOLAS
SENNEFELDER
TIMOTHY H. STANTON
52
#
53
CASE
4346
DEFENDANT
TIMOTHY H. STANTON
54
4356
TIMOTHY H. STANTON
55
2013CR-208
. JAY TIMOTHY
SWANSON
56
6224
57
2013CR-62
2014CR-77
TAFFI ESSA-JEAN
TAYLOR
TAFFIESSA-JEAN
TAYLOR
LAVONDA G. THOMAS
58
PD Sellers
PDL & SDR
No AF ATT
RD Sellers
PM. & SDR
VOP 3RD
ATTORNEY
ACTION
VOP 3RD
VOP 3RD
Holly
PDL & SDR
VOP 1ST
VOP 1St
PD Sellers
2. Poss. Firearm
w/intoxicated
3. Viol. Imp. Consent
4. DOSL
5. Poss. Drug Paraph.
6. Simple Poss.
1. DOSL 9-5-13 THP
Wills
1. Failure to Appear (65-14)
1. Attpd. Manuf. Sch. II
2. Poss. Sch. II for
Resale
CHARGE
1. Child Abuse &
Neglect @ 3 Cts.
1. Manuf. Sch. II
1. Poss. Sch. VI for
Resale
2. Poss. Drug Paraph.
1. Theft o/$500
PDL & SCR
59
5606
TRISHA RENEE VANCE
VOP 1ST
2. Forgery
@ 11
Cts.
3. Theft u/$500
1. Theft o/$500
60
5871
TRISHA RENEE VANCE
CC t/b PlF
VOP 1ST
1. Failure to Appear
61
2014-C
R-81
2014CR-82
21113CR-136
JENNIFER REBECCA
WALKER
JENNIFER REBECCA
WALKER
EMILY HOPE WALLACE
CC t/b PIF
ARR
1. Theft u/$500
Buck
PDL
2014-C
R-100
EMILY HOPE WALLACE
Buck
POI
$50 Mo.
52
63
64
ARR
5-9-14, FTA,
Capias, No
Bond
5-9-14, FTA,
Capias, No
Bond
2. Driving Left of Center
3. Light Law
4. Seatbelt
1. Failure to Appear (417-14)
1. Failure to Appear (430-13)
1. Theft o/$1,000
$400 AV @
STATUS
Judgment 2-305
STATUS
Judgment 6-1104
Judgment 6-1104
Judgment 7-1213
Judgment 7-1213
Judgment 5-1412
Judgment 5-1412
1. Failure to Appear (to
Serve Jail Time)
1. Statutory Rape of a
Minor
2.Contributing to
Delinq.. of a Minor
1. Aggd. Assault
2. Aggd. Assault as
Dom. Viol.
3. Theft of $500
4. DUI
Page 34 of 35
#
65
66
CASE
2014CR-134
2014CR-68
5864
DEFENDANT
TOMMY LEN WARD, JR
ATTORNEY
To Hire
ROBERT LEE WILLIAMS
ADD ON
PATRICK THOMAS
GRAYSON
ACTION
ARR
ARR
Wright
Expungement
CHARGE
1. Aggd. Burglary
STATUS
2. Theft o/$1,000
3. Vandalism
1. Failure to Appear (for
Jail Time)
1. Identity Theft
Jud. Div. 12-2011
Page 35 of 35